Luang prabang: More than 6,400 people gathered in Luang Prabang from 3 to 5 October to celebrate the International Coffee and Tea Day (ICTD) 2025, transforming the UNESCO World Heritage City into a dynamic hub for farmers, entrepreneurs, roasters, traders, and development partners. The event showcased Lao coffee and tea as key drivers of sustainable growth and agricultural development.
According to Lao News Agency, the event was organized by the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE) through its Department of Agriculture and the Green CUP Project-a flagship initiative under Team Europe’s Global Gateway strategy, co-funded by France and the European Union. This marked the first-ever joint celebration of International Coffee Day (1 October) and International Tea Day (21 May). Themed “Coffee and Tea for Better Lives: Embracing Collaboration for a Sustainable Future”, the event highlighted the power of collaboration in building resilient agricultural value chains.
In the Lao PDR, coffee and tea are among the top agricultural exports, playing a vital role in rural income and employment. Over 25,000 households cultivate coffee and tea on small-scale farms, benefiting more than 310,000 families through job creation and increased income. In 2024 alone, Laos exported over 50,000 tons of coffee and 100 tons of dried tea, earning over USD 100 million from coffee and USD 2 million from tea.
Throughout the three-day event, more than 40 booths showcased the finest Lao coffee, tea, and agro-based products. Visitors engaged with premium brands and cooperatives, explored emerging businesses, and connected with stakeholders working to strengthen sustainable value chains.
The opening ceremony was attended by Mr. Chanthakhone Boualaphanh, Vice Minister of Agriculture and Environment, and co-chaired by Ms. Siliphone Suphonthong, Vice Governor of Luang Prabang Province, Ms. Doerthe Wacker, Minister Counsellor and Head of Political, Press and Information Section of the Delegation of the European Union to the Lao PDR, and Mr. Fran§ois-Xavier Duporge, Country Director of the French Development Agency (AFD).
Ms. Siliphone Suphonthong noted the province’s pride in hosting the national celebration, emphasizing the cultural and economic significance of coffee and tea. Mr. Francois-Xavier Duporge reaffirmed France’s support for sustainable growth in the coffee and tea sectors, aligning with the national strategy for a self-reliant and resilient economy.
Ms. Doerthe Wacker highlighted Europe’s commitment to supporting Lao PDR’s coffee and tea sectors, noting the increasing demand for sustainable and organic products in the European market. Mr. Chanthakhone Boulaphanh celebrated the global recognition of Lao products, citing international accolades for Lao coffee and tea.
The celebration underscored the importance of coffee and tea as symbols of Lao agriculture and the strength of partnerships in driving sustainable growth. The event concluded with a commitment to strengthen value chains, promote inclusive growth, and position Lao PDR as a recognized origin of high-quality, sustainable coffee and tea globally.
In addition to the festival, the Green Cup project partnered with Wonders International to host the Lao Young Barista Championship.